Ax from freighter Pomona, suspected murder weapon used on captain. (Photo by Don Cravens/Getty Images)
San Diego, California – A disturbing incident unfolded Thursday afternoon in Pacific Beach when police shot a man allegedly wielding an axe inside a public library after refusing to comply with officers’ commands.
The initial call came in at approximately 4:20 p.m., reporting a man violently swinging an axe at the Pacific Beach Taylor Branch Library, located near Dawes Street and Thomas Avenue. Witnesses say the suspect, a man in his 50s described as a known transient in the area, erupted while using a public computer before going on a destructive rampage.
“He was smashing computers, chopping at books and furniture. It was total chaos,” said one witness who asked not to be named. The man then left the library with the axe still in hand.
Police quickly responded and located the suspect on the 4300 block of Dawes Street, where he was still armed. According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, officers issued multiple commands for the man to drop the weapon. When he failed to comply, one officer opened fire, striking the suspect several times.
Lt. Juan Marquez of the sheriff’s office confirmed, “Several commands were given to the individual to drop the weapon, and he did not. One officer fired several rounds, striking the subject.”
The suspect was given immediate medical attention and transported to a hospital in critical condition. Authorities believe he will survive.
Residents expressed concern about escalating incidents in the area. “We’ve called the police multiple times,” said Cady Sliger, who lives nearby. “I’ve seen knives, guns, drugs — but never an axe.”
Despite the chaos, some neighbors also expressed compassion. “He’s a human being too,” said resident Darryl Brown. “I know drugs and alcohol are a terrible thing, but human beings deserve kindness.”
Sheriff’s homicide detectives have recovered the weapon and are leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, as per the Countywide Memorandum of Understanding. The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office will determine whether the shooting was justified, while the San Diego Police Department will conduct its own administrative review.
The FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office are also monitoring the case. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.
